The 2022 Domaine Plageoles Gaillac Doux "Le Loin de l'Œil" is a rare and captivating sweet wine from one of southwest France's most historic estates. Crafted entirely from the ancient indigenous Loin de l'Œil grape, the wine comes from organically farmed vineyards in Gaillac, where the Plageoles family has spent generations preserving forgotten local varieties. Harvested from late-picked fruit and bottled in a 500ml format, it beautifully balances natural sweetness with the freshness and mineral character that define the estate's traditional, minimal-intervention approach.
The nose reveals aromas of ripe apricot, quince and baked pear layered with acacia honey, orange blossom, candied citrus and delicate spice. The palate is luscious yet vibrant, with rich stone fruit, marmalade and honeyed flavours supported by refreshing acidity that keeps the wine beautifully poised. Notes of ginger, almond and subtle minerality unfold through a long, elegant finish with remarkable purity and balance.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A distinctive sweet wine that showcases one of France's rare heritage grape varieties. Its balance of richness and freshness makes it an outstanding match for foie gras, blue cheese, fruit tarts, crème brûlée and lightly spiced Asian cuisine. Equally rewarding on its own, it can be enjoyed now or cellared through 2040 as it develops greater honeyed complexity and depth.
